Ben Chrisman

Ben Chrisman, WPJA's Photographer of the Year in 2007, is a destination wedding photographer based in San Francisco, California. Ben and his wife Erin Chrisman were also recognized as Two of the Top 10 Wedding Photographers in the World by American Photo magazine.

The Wedding Photojournalist Association proudly recognizes the accomplishments and creative excellence of Ben Chrisman. The following awards have been earned by Ben from the WPJA. These achievements come with great merit considering the high level of competition that a member faces in the contests.

5th Place - Silhouettes and Shadows5th Place - Reception9th Place - Reception

2010

Q4

1st Place - Creative Portrait3rd Place - Toasting/Speeches5th Place - First Dance6th Place - First Dance14th Place - Toasting/Speeches15th Place - Getting Ready16th Place - Silhouettes, Shadows & Good Light19th Place - Emotion

2nd Place - Other Vendors3rd Place - Ceremony6th Place - Ceremony7th Place - Great Natural Light8th Place - Reception10th Place - Emotion11th Place - Cake Cutting12th Place - Engagement Portraits12th Place - Toasting13th Place - Details (Found)14th Place - Other Vendors15th Place - Kids (being kids)

Q1

14th Place - Creative Portraits20th Place - Reception

2007

Q4

1st Place - Creative Portrait2nd Place - Rehearsal Dinner3rd Place - Ceremony3rd Place - Toasting3rd Place - First Dance15th Place - Toasting

The following letters are from the clients of Ben Chrisman. Click an image to view a larger version.

Betsy & HansenMarried June 20th, 2009
"Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I've watched our slideshow about 17 times since you posted it yesterday, and have spent at least 10 hours in the online gallery. The amazing thing is, when I watch the slideshow for the 18th time, I know I'll tear up yet again, and laugh yet again...more " You just captured the emotion so exquisitely and told the story of our day so beautifully that I feel like I'm re-living each moment. It's even more fun to see the moments that I didn't see as the day unfolded. I had no idea that I laughed out loud at the alter when the minister started to tear up until I saw your pictures of my expression! I could gush for pages about why finding you both was the best decision we made for our wedding and why you really are the best photographers in the world, but you already have the photos and the awards that speak for themselves. I'll thank you instead for being so surprisingly humble for someone so acclaimed. Thank you for being so non-invasive in capturing the story of the day as it unfolded instead of taking it over. And thank you for being so truly passionate about your work. When Ben got excited about a great shot- we all got excited! After seeing you both for our last two family gatherings, I think we're all going to be a bit disappointed when you don't show up for Christmas. I'm going to start badgering my brothers to hurry up and get married so we can do this again! Wishing you both all the happiness that you've given to us" show less

Vicki & JacobMarried November 24th, 2007
"Our Dearest Ben- It has been said that really great talent is that which finds its happiness in execution. This quote, I think, addresses you completely - your work is nothing short of remarkable, and your love for the camera shines through every photograph. There is no doubt that hiring...more "you was far and away the best decision of our wedding. But the pictures were only half of it....the other is that we made a great new friend. How beautiful and rare to find someone who is so in touch with life that he can literally transport you back in time through the lens of a camera...how wonderful and uplifting to encounter someone in this industry who actually makes you more aware of the joy your wedding represents... We are forever in your debt for the amazing photographs. We are even more indebted for the kindness and patience that is you. It was a blast and we can't wait to see you again. Miss you tons" show less

Kendra & ChrisMarried June 9th, 2007
"Ben, Chris and I don't even know where to begin. You are truly the best! Not only was your photography the most incredible thing my family has ever seen, your personality and charm won us all over. You were so helpful throughout the day in so many ways. We will never be able to...more "repay you for everything you did for us. You made me feel the most calm I have ever felt my whole life on the most 'stressful' day of my life; for that I thank you with all my heart! Every single picture you took at our wedding is a beautiful piece of art; that is what sets you apart from every other wedding photographer out there. You captured every single perfect moment of our perfect day - the funniest moments, the excitement of the day and most importantly, you perfectly captured our love for each other. So, thank you Ben! We love you and everything you are doing for the couples you photograph! We were so blessed to have you" show less

MJ & MikeMarried June 2nd, 2007
"Dearest Ben, We've run out of superlatives to describe your brilliant work. All we can say now, again and always is thanks for the beautiful pictures. Hiring you was definitely the best decision by far about our wedding. Planning for our big day took a completely different course...more "once we booked you, as if the bar had been "raised" because of the quality and standard your photos would attribute. We were more excited about our photos than anything, the marriage itself being a given. We're so glad your availability opened up for our date because it could've been the biggest regret of our lives had it not. You are an incredible photographer with pure talent, dedication, passion and humility. You've always given us more than what was required of a professional. Thanks for having been such a pleasure to work with, for your tireless spirit, dedication to the art and continuing to inspire us with your work" show less

The Wedding Photojournalist Association put the world's best wedding photography at your fingertips. We offer a new perspective on wedding photography - quietly capturing the real moments as they happen for the bride and groom. It is our goal to use photography to tell the story of your wedding day, not dictate it for you.